Official tourism website for Northern Ireland

Castle Ward
County Down

You are here: Home > Things to Do > Arts, Culture & Heritage > Grand Houses & Gardens

Grand Houses & Gardens

Though the history of Northern Ireland lives on in its sometimes majestic, sometimes intriguing great houses and gardens, it’s the stories of the people who inhabited them that really bring that heritage to life. So wherever you go you’ll find a tale behind the bricks and mortar – or indeed beneath the soil. Here’s just a small introduction to some of Northern Ireland’s finest properties. You’ll have to visit to discover the full story – a great excuse to spend time in some truly beautiful locations.

Castle Ward

What would the purists make of Castle Ward? Built in the early 1760s, it sports a classic Palladian frontage and a romantic Gothic style rear. A stylistic spilt that continues throughout the interior. Sadly the split was reflected in the fate of its owners - husband and wife, Bernard Ward, Baron Lord Bangor and Lady Anne. It appears it wasn’t only the style of the house they couldn’t agree on. They went their separate ways some years after it was completed.

The Gardens, though, are an altogether more unified affair. This beautiful 820 walled demesne hides an exotic sunken garden and winding woodland paths that lead you down to the shores of the stunning Strangford Lough.

Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

It would be hard to find a more spectacular setting than Hillsborough Castle. A working Royal Palace, it’s the official residence of the Royal Family when they’re in Northern Ireland. Built in the 1770s by the Marquis of Downshire, it’s been frequently remodelled since then. The recently refurbished State Drawing Room and Throne Room are well worth a visit. And you’ll be following in some famous footsteps. The Dalai Lama, Princess Diana, Hilary Clinton and Eleanor Roosevelt have all been guests here.

The 100 acres of beautiful gardens are at their best – well, all year round really. Look out for Lady Alice’s Temple, the Quaker Burial Ground and the fascinating Ice House.

Castle Coole

Castle Coole, one of the finest neo-classical houses in Ireland, was built to impress the guests of the first Earl of Belmore, Amar Lowry-Corry. And it succeeded, though at a cost. The final bill - the equivalent of over £20 million in today’s money - left the family finances reeling. However, that didn’t faze the second earl who inherited the house and completed it with equal - and perhaps also inherited - extravagance.

Of course, it does mean there’s all the more for today’s visitors to enjoy – including the great halls, glorious Greek columns, ornate plasterwork and elegant Regency furnishings.

Mount Stewart

Voted one of the top ten gardens in the world, Mount Stewart owes its artistry and inspired planting to Edith, Lady Londonderry – wife of Charles, the seventh Marquess of Londonderry. Her passion for bold planting schemes, and a climate in which rare and tender specimens thrive, make it one of Northern Ireland’s most loved stately homes.

Equally flamboyant in her own life, Edith’s fondness for entertaining the A-listers of the 1920s and 1930s – among them W. B. Yeats, Michael Collins and Winston Churchill - set some local tongues wagging. As did her, entirely platonic, friendship with Labour Leader, Ramsay MacDonald.

Florence Court

Sir John Cole first built a mansion here in the 18th century, naming it for his beloved wife Florence. It would later become the vast, though still romantic, Palladian pile it is today.

However, it nearly was no more. In 1955, fire took hold. Only the quick thinking of Viola Grosvenor – later the Duchess of Westminster – saved it. Forming the servants into a human chain to carry paintings and furniture to safety, she also had the foresight to drill holes in the ceilings, allowing water from the fire hoses to flow away and so prevent their collapse.

The Gardens too have a tale to tell. They are home to the mother of all yews. Gifted to Lord Enniskillen by a local farmer in the 1700s, the Florence Court Yew is reputedly the ancestor of the millions of Irish yews in existence today.

The Argory

Little has changed in The Argory, a superb Greek revival villa since the 1900s. It has never been lit by electricity and much of the original Victorian furniture remains as the family left it.

It’s the tale of its second owner, though, Captain Ralph MacGeough Bond-Shelton that would really make history. A survivor of 1852 sinking of HMS Birkenhead off Cape Town, he instigated a naval protocol that holds to this day. Almost 500 people perished in the tragedy. Yet, as the ship went down the Captain gallantly saved women and children, before swimming through shark-infested water to safety himself. The precedent – women and children first – was set.

The spirit of Northern Ireland – and of those who lived and loved here - lives on in its great houses and wonderful gardens. If this has inspired you to see what else is out there, it’s time to get going. If you're planning a special event or looking for venue inspiration, check out our guide on Historic Houses and Gardens. There are lots of fabulous places you're yet to discover.

Plan your trip

Stay
What's On
Things to Do
Food & Drink
Shopping

Things to Do Search

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

What's On Search

Dates

Start Date:

End Date:

Any date in the future

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

Food & Drink Search

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

Shopping Search

Type:

Area:

Or type a Location:

Keyword:

Number of results: 32

, currently showing 1 to 20.

Sort By A-Z Lowest A-Z Highest

Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
424 reviews
Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

Royal Hillsborough

Address

Main Street, Royal Hillsborough, County Down, BT26 6AG

Telephone
+44 (0) 333 320 6000

info@hrp.org.uk

Type

Type:

Historic House / Palace

Come and explore Northern Ireland's royal residence, where worlds and minds meet. Relax in 100 acres of picturesque gardens, explore the State Rooms still used today and indulge in delicious food and drink in our café.
Special Offers
- Kids Go Free at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
  This summer, the spacious gardens of Hillsborough Castle are open for children of all ages – completely free of charge! Want to extend your unforgettable day out? Little ones can step inside the Castle and discover a grand palace for just £5.
  Book Now
  More offers like this - Experiences & Attractions
Dates
More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
- On site parking
- Parking (free)
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on Premises
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
242 reviews
Montalto Estate

Ballynahinch

Address

Spa Road, Ballynahinch, County Down, BT24 8PT

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9756 6100

info@montaltoestate.com
Gradings
- Five Star Quality Assurance
Type

Type:

Historic Sites, Houses, Castles & Buildings

Montalto Estate in Ballynahinch is a mystical and enchanting estate, set in magnificent natural surroundings. Visitor experience includes access to the estate's beautiful gardens; historic walks and trails and an exciting play area where children…

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Open 09:30 - 16:00
More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
- Dogs Welcome Inside
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
- On site parking
- Parking (free)
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on Premises
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
616 reviews
Florence Court

Florencecourt

Address

Florencecourt, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, BT92 1DB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 6634 8249

florencecourt@nationaltrust.org.uk
Gradings
- Four Star Quality Assurance
Type

Type:

The National Trust

Florence Court is a truly welcoming home. The house, formerly the home of the Cole family, Earls of Enniskillen, is surrounded by a large area of parkland, garden and woodland, with breathtaking views to Benaughlin and the Cuilcagh Mountains. You…
More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
380 reviews
Castle Coole

Enniskillen

Address

Castlecoole Road, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, BT74 6JY

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 6632 2690

castlecoole@nationaltrust.org.uk
Gradings
- Four Star Quality Assurance
Type

Type:

The National Trust

Castle Coole one of Ireland's finest Neo-classical houses, allowing visitors to glimpse what life was like in the home of the Earls of Belmore. Discover the story of the people who lived and worked below stairs as you explore the servants quarters.
More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
565 reviews
Antrim Castle Gardens and Clotworthy House

Antrim

Address

Randalstown Road, Antrim, County Antrim, BT41 4LH

Telephone
+44 (0)28 9448 1338

clotworthy.reception@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk
Gradings
- Four Star Quality Assurance
Type

Type:

Garden

Antrim Castle Gardens and Clotworthy House are hidden gems waiting to be explored. Filled with botanical beauty and heritage, you will find nothing like these 400 year old gardens anywhere else in Northern Ireland.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Various Opening Times
More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking - Free parking is available at 3 different car parks at the main site off the Randalstown Road with dedicated disabled parking bays and EV charging.
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
225 reviews
Glenarm Castle & Garden

Glenarm

Address

Castle Demesne, Glenarm, County Antrim, BT44 0BD

Telephone
+44 (0)28 2884 1203

info@glenarmcastle.com
Gradings
- Four Star Quality Assurance
Type

Type:

Historic Sites, Houses, Castles & Buildings

Crowned "Historic Houses 2023 Garden of the Year", Glenarm Castle and its walled gardens are a true national treasure. One of Ireland's oldest estates, and home to the Earls of Antrim, Glenarm Castle offers incredible garden walks, with stunning…
More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
155 reviews
Rowallane Garden

Saintfield

Address

Rowallane Gardens, Saintfield, County Down, BT24 7LH

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9751 0131

rowallane@nationaltrust.org.uk
Gradings
- Four Star Quality Assurance
Type

Type:

The National Trust

This unique garden has grown from the 19th century beginnings of the Reverend John Moore and his nephew Hugh Armytage Moore. Their vision created a place where you can leave the world behind and immerse yourself in nature's beauty.
More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1084 reviews
Mount Stewart

Newtownards

Address

Portaferry Road, Newtownards, County Down, BT22 2AD

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 4278 8387

mountstewart@nationaltrust.org.uk
Gradings
- Four Star Quality Assurance
Type

Type:

The National Trust

Mount Stewart is a stunning estate in the beautiful scenic area of Strangford Lough. The Formal Gardens are ranked as one of the top ten in the world and the within the house there are collections of national and international significance.
More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs Welcome Inside
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
- On site parking
- Parking (free)
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on Premises
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
208 reviews
The Argory

Moy

Address

144 Derrycaw Road, Moy, County Armagh, BT71 6NA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 8778 4753

argory@nationaltrust.org.uk
Gradings
- Four Star Quality Assurance
Type

Type:

The National Trust

The Argory was built in the 1820s and its hilltop location offers wonderful views over the gardens and 320 acre wooded riverside estate.
More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Ballance House

Glenavy

Address

118A Lisburn Road, Glenavy, County Antrim, BT29 4NY

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9264 8492

info@theballancehouse.com

Type

Type:

Visitor Centres & Museums

The Ballance House farm museum, run by The Ulster New Zealand Trust, is the restored birthplace of John Ballance, Prime Minister of New Zealand 1891-1893.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
- On site parking
- Parking (free)
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
500 reviews
Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne

Castlerock

Address

Mussenden Road, Castlerock, County Londonderry, BT51 4RP

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7084 8728

downhilldemesne@nationaltrust.org.uk

Type

Type:

The National Trust

Mussenden Temple is located in the beautiful surroundings of Downhill Demesne near Castlerock in County Londonderry. Awe inspiring views, colourful gardens and woodland walks.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
35 reviews
Lisburn Castle Gardens

Lisburn

Address

Castle Street, Lisburn, County Antrim, BT27 4XE

Telephone
028 9266 3377

ilc.reception@lisburn.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Public Park

Castle Gardens is the most historically significant open space in Lisburn and was once the site of Lisburn Castle, a 17th century fortified manor house, built by the Conway family, the landlords of Lisburn.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs Welcome Inside - must be on a lead
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
54 reviews
Sentry Hill Historic House & Visitor Centre

Newtownabbey

Address

40 Ballycraigy Road, Newtownabbey, County Antrim, BT36 4SX

Telephone
0300 123 7788

culture@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Visitor Centres & Museums

Sentry Hill is a 19th century farmhouse in the Parish of Carnmoney, County Antrim. The house and its contents provide a rare insight into life in rural Ulster during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
682 reviews
Castle Ward

Strangford

Address

Downpatrick Road, Strangford, County Down, BT30 7BA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 4488 1204

castleward@nationaltrust.org.uk

Type

Type:

The National Trust

Discover a place of contrasts and creativity at Castle Ward, an eccentric 18th century mansion and estate looking out over the tranquil waters of Strangford Lough in County Down where visitors can explore cultivated gardens, sheltered woodland and…

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs Welcome Inside
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Maghera Walled Garden

Maghera

Address

Church Street, Maghera, County Londonderry, BT46 5BD

Telephone
+44 (0) 3000 132 132

tourism@midulstercouncil.org

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Garden

Maghera Walled Garden, a restored Victorian Garden on the grounds of a medieval 4th Century royal dwelling and ancient Monastery.

Price
Free

More Info
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
64 reviews
Clifton House - The Belfast Poor House

Belfast

Address

2 North Queen Street, Belfast, County Antrim, BT15 1ES

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9099 7022

info@cliftonbelfast.org.uk

Type

Type:

Historic Sites, Houses, Castles & Buildings

The history of Belfast begins at Clifton House. From the moment you step through the door you will be transported back in time to the Belfast Poor House – opened in 1774 – which provided sanctuary to thousands of people, from the young and old, to…

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
- Parking (free)
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wi-fi available
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
41 reviews
Ardress House

Portadown

Address

64 Ardress Road, Portadown, County Armagh, BT62 1SQ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 8778 4753

ardress@nationaltrust.org.uk

Type

Type:

The National Trust

Ardress is nestled in the apple orchards of County Armagh and offers afternoons of fun and relaxation for everyone. Built in the 17th century as a farmhouse, Ardress was remodelled in Georgian times.

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
405 reviews
Bangor Castle Walled Garden

Bangor

Address

Valentine Road, Castle Park, Bangor, County Down, BT20 4BN

Telephone
+44 (0)28 9127 0069

bangorvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Garden

It is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. Varieties of flowers, plants, fruit and vegetables mix with sculptures and a unique fountain with a tongue twister! We are thrilled that the Walled Garden is now open all year round…

Dates

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Ballyrobert Gardens

Ballyclare

Address

154 Ballyrobert Road, Ballyclare, County Antrim, BT39 9RT

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9344 0101

bookings@ballyrobertgardens.com

Type

Type:

Cottage Garden

Ballyrobert Cottage Garden is a beautiful and unique Irish garden. It extends to 6 acres and is designed in an historic 17th century landscape, with the original cottage and barn being key features. In addition to the more formal garden, is an area…

Dates

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
95 reviews
Lissan House

Cookstown

Address

Drumgrass Road, Cookstown, County Tyrone, BT80 9SW

Telephone
+44 (0) 7736 837 779

info@lissanhouse.com

Type

Type:

Historic Sites, Houses, Castles & Buildings

Lissan House is an enchanting country residence set within a 260 acre demesne of ancient woodland and forestry. The estate was created in the 17th century and remained the home of the Staples family for nearly 400 years.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking